Ground Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Introduction

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a savory, hearty, and satisfying dish that combines tender ground beef with crisp, flavorful broccoli in a delicious sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is a great weeknight dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein and vegetables in one satisfying meal. The rich umami flavor of the beef pairs perfectly with the fresh, slightly bitter crunch of the broccoli, creating a harmonious blend that everyone will love.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or looking to impress your guests with a simple but delicious dish, Ground Beef and Broccoli is versatile, nutritious, and incredibly tasty. This guide walks you through the cooking process, offers tips for success, and suggests fun variations to try.

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy nights when you want a homemade, comforting meal without the hassle.
• Balanced and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from the ground beef and fiber from the broccoli, this dish is a great way to get in your vegetables while still enjoying a delicious, hearty meal.
• Flavorful: The savory sauce, seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, provides a rich, umami flavor that ties the beef and broccoli together beautifully.
• Versatile: Ground Beef and Broccoli can be served with rice, noodles, or even wrapped in lettuce for a lighter option, making it easy to customize based on your preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef is an affordable protein choice, and broccoli is a low-cost vegetable, making this meal an economical option for feeding a family.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 22-25g
• Carbohydrates: 15-20g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Broccoli:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably lean, such as 85% lean)
• 1 large head of broccoli (about 4 cups of florets), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
• ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional, for added sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for balance)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra richness)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening sauce)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon green onions (optional, for garnish)

Special Equipment

While making Ground Beef and Broccoli doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment can help streamline the process and improve results:

1. Large Skillet or Wok: A wide, heavy-duty skillet or wok is ideal for this recipe. The ample surface area allows for even cooking and prevents the beef and broccoli from overcrowding, ensuring they cook through without steaming.
2. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy spoon or spatula is perfect for breaking up the ground beef as it cooks and stirring everything together.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is essential for easily cutting the broccoli into florets. It also ensures you can mince the garlic and ginger efficiently.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements ensure that your sauce is perfectly balanced. Measuring spoons and cups will help you get the right proportions of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and other seasonings.
5. Small Bowl for Sauce: A small bowl will help you mix the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan. This prevents clumps and ensures an even distribution of flavor.
6. Serving Dish: Once cooked, serving the dish on a large platter or individual bowls allows for a clean presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by washing and cutting the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Trim off the tough stems and cut the florets into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Mince the garlic and ginger to add to the dish later.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, and continue cooking until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Drain any excess fat if necessary, but leave a little for flavor.

3. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger

Once the beef is browned, push it to one side of the pan and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the empty side. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir everything together, combining the beef with the garlic and ginger.

4. Add the Sauce Ingredients

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, and sesame oil (if using). Stir well to combine. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water in a separate bowl and add it to the sauce mixture. Pour the sauce over the ground beef and stir to coat the beef evenly in the sauce.

5. Cook the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir them into the beef mixture. Pour in ¼ cup of water to help steam the broccoli and cook everything together. Cover the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender but still bright green and crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Once the broccoli is tender, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, a splash of rice vinegar for acidity, or a pinch of sugar for sweetness if desired. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.

7. Serve the Dish

Once everything is well-cooked and the sauce has thickened slightly, transfer the Ground Beef and Broccoli to a serving platter. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef, such as 85% lean, to keep the dish lighter while still getting plenty of flavor. If you use fattier beef, be sure to drain excess fat before adding the sauce.
• Cook the Broccoli Properly: You want the broccoli to be tender but not mushy. Steaming it in the pan for a few minutes while covered helps it retain its crunch and vibrant green color.
• Balance the Sauce: The soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar create a sweet, salty, and tangy balance. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your taste, especially if you prefer more sweetness or saltiness.
• Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or a bit of chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture.
• Customize with Add-Ins: If you want to add more vegetables, try tossing in some bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms when cooking the broccoli.

Variations of Ground Beef and Broccoli

• Ground Turkey and Broccoli: For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the ground beef. The turkey will absorb the flavors of the sauce just as well and provide a leaner protein option.
• Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Noodles: Serve this dish over cooked noodles, such as rice noodles, soba, or even spaghetti for a complete meal with more texture. Toss the noodles in a bit of soy sauce before serving for extra flavor.
• Ground Beef and Broccoli with Cashews: Add a handful of roasted cashews to the dish just before serving for added crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, such as crumbled tofu or tempeh, for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Ground Beef and Broccoli is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Ground Beef and Broccoli

Pair this dish with complementary sides to round out your meal:

• Steamed Rice: Serve the Ground Beef and Broccoli over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Noodles: Cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or soba, are a great pairing. The chewy noodles complement the beef and broccoli beautifully.
• Egg Rolls: Serve the dish with crispy egg rolls on the side for added texture and a satisfying bite.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: A refreshing Asian-inspired salad with cucumbers, carrots, and a sesame dressing pairs well with this dish.

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Conclusion

Ground Beef and Broccoli is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish that delivers a satisfying meal with minimal effort. The savory sauce, tender ground beef, and crunchy broccoli come together for a delightful combination of textures and tastes. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or meal prep idea, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. With its simplicity, versatility, and delicious flavor, Ground Beef and Broccoli will quickly become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire!